Distance From Boston: 1 hour and 15 minutes. Hike or drive up Mt. After a few minutes of relaxing in your cozy room or in the tastefully decorated lobby, you're guaranteed to fall in love with every nook and cranny of this fabulous resort. Vincenty formula. It's a great place to enjoy the great outdoors and is home to some of the country's oldest towns, where you'll find historic squares and quaint redbrick homes on the seaports looking out across the Atlantic. But dont let that scare you away! Meander through the shops on Bear Skin Neck. Stops along 2 different routes include Bear Brook and Hampton Beach State Parks, Old Orchard Beach Pier, Canobie Lake Park, Salisbury Beach State Reservation, and Salem. Walk around Main Street to visit the boutiques. What To Expect During Your Stay At Mohonk Mountain House: Click here to book your stay at Mohonk Mountain House! Here are the most adorable little towns to visit that make awesome road trips from Boston. Boston is the perfect city to begin this scenic New England seacoast trip. The total Boston to Maine road trip distance covers 285 miles if you go all the way to Bar Harbor. With temperatures peaking at around the mid-to-high 70s, Portland is extremely pleasant in the summer if you don't mind the crowds. Click here to read about more amazing things to do in Ogunquit! For instance, you might be interested in the answers to this question: points of interest on drive. Walk along Marginal Way, where youll get the most amazing views of the rocky coastline. You'll pass York and Kennebunkport before arriving in Portland, from where you'll take Route 1 to skirt around beautiful Casco Bay. You may also like:The best things to do in New England in the fall! View more. Once you've crossed over from New Hampshire to Maine, make your way north eastwards, keeping the coast on your right-hand side. Click here to book your stay at Mirbeau Inn & Spa in Skaneateles! Just a short distance from Ogunquit is Kennebunkport, so these two destinations could easily be combined, and both are worth your time. With downhill skiing in the mountains, Nordic skiing through the forests, snowmobile trails and ice fishing, Maine can be a fabulous winter destination. The shortest distance from Boston to Bar Harbor is 285 miles. The same is true for Portland itself, whose peak tourist season is around July and August. Distance From Boston: 1 hour and 25 minutes. As you cross the New York/Vermont border, youll begin to see the tall mountains all around you, and instantly feel more at peace. Carrying on along Route 1 around Penobscot Bay, turn right when you reach Ellsworth and follow the road toward Trenton, where you'll cross the Mt Desert Narrows. Click here to read my detailed travel guide on the best things to do on Cape Ann, a region of the North Shore that includes Rockport! Click the link below to learn more, or book your tour. Head to the Portland Museum of Art to catch a really varied and thought-provoking selection of exhibitions, ranging from contemporary pieces to works by some of art history's biggest names. After so many trips to Maine, I put together this one to two-week Maine coast road trip itinerary from Beantown all the way up to Acadia. Nantucket is a gorgeous island off the coast of Cape Cod bursting with charm and natural beauty. Visit the unique shops along Thames Street. Go brewery hopping, as Portsmouth is home to five breweries. If you can handle a 12-mile ride, try the 5 Lighthouse Tour. LazyTrips is a trading name of Strategy Desk Ltd. Drive time from Boston to Bar Harbor: approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes Distance from Boston to Bar Harbor: approximately 295 miles Best car for this road trip: Standard SUV Start Your Trip 1. If youre looking for the ultimate coastal Maine getaway to fully relax and recharge, then Cliff House will be the perfect road trip from Boston for you. Sit and admire the views of the lake from the towns many waterfront areas. Roads are kept as clear as possible, but always drive with the freezing conditions in mind, and apply extra caution if you're used to driving in more temperate parts of the world. Road Trip From Boston To Bar Harbor: A Tour Guide, Road Trip From New York To Boston: A Tour Guide, Road Trip From New Jersey To Maine: A Tour Guide, Road Trip From New York To Maine: A Tour Guide, Road Trip From Florida To Maine: A Tour Guide. For this list, Ive broken down the destinations into four categories: Coastal, City, Charming Towns and Luxury Getaways. Get bagels at Brooklyn Bagel (the best in the city). Your plane flies much faster than a car, so the flight time is about 1/4th of the time it would take to drive. Two outdoor pools, two indoor pools and a hot tub. Click here to read my post on the best things to do in Upstate New York in the fall! Here are a few gas stations along the way where you can stop to fill up your tank. distance from Maine to Boston, or go to the main page Daytime temperatures are pleasant, from the mid-70s in September down to around 60 in October, but evenings will start to feel cold. 10:00 am start in Boston drive for about 1 hour 11:04 am Portsmouth (New Hampshire) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:04 pm drive for about 37 minutes 12:42 pm Kennebunkport (Maine) eat at All Day Breakfast stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:42 pm drive for about 59 minutes 2:41 pm Brunswick (Maine) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:41 pm The Best Things to do in Boothbay Harbor, Maine The true Maine experience begins when you arrive in Boothbay Harbor. The Salem Witch Museum: Salem is best known for the witch trials of 1692 and this museum will give you a fascinating look at that dark chapter in the towns history. For this route, youll head northwest of Boston, and drive through the best towns in Vermont from this list. What To Expect During Your Stay At Cliff House: Click here to book your stay at Cliff House! Route distance: 222 km; Suggested Time: 4 days; Favorite. With a drive this short, you can take off at virtually any hour and make it to Portland in time to do something fun in Portland. Even though its technically a city, I wanted to include it in the coastal destinations group because it definitely feels more like a resort waterfront town than a city. Centrally located Portland Harbor Hotel stylishly combines modern design with hints of coastal chic, and it's a beautiful place to stay while you're in town. Eventually For this route, youll head north from Boston and visit the following destinations: Days Needed For This Route: 2-4. You can take a steamboat cruise on Moosehead Lake to enjoy the views from a different angle, or enjoy boating, kayaking and fishing. Different parts of America offer different benefits for tourists. One of the top hotels in town is Queen Anne's Revenge, a beautiful location known for its fantastically welcoming team, and for the immaculate design that runs through every room. The booming Seaport District, luxury shopping in the Prudential Center, or places to explore Boston's historic past are all just minutes from Logan International Airport. helping you figure out travel plans in detail. Click here to see why Kennebunkport is one of the best Christmas towns in New England! From here, return to the highway, following Route 302 south as far as Riverton, where you'll rejoin I-95 to begin your drive back to Boston. the flight planner: Trippy has a ton of information that can help you plan your trip to Maine (ME). Walk around the charming downtown to visit the shops and restaurants. Beautifully manicured lawns with yard games. More info on this route:elevation from Boston to Mainedrive from Boston to Maineroad conditionsalternate routesGoogle driving directions, We want to drive from Maine to San Antonio, TX. waiting for our flight, and making it to the destination. Hit the trails at Bluff Point State Park. As you can see, Boston is really an incredible gateway to all of the Northeast, making it easy to take lots of different road trips. Youll cover these destinations: Note: This route isnt as direct as the other routes, and will include 6.5 hours of driving time to get from Boston to Burlington, stopping at the other destinations along the way. If you are traveling from Boston to Bar Harbor, you will want to take at least a week to explore the Maine coast. If you are traveling from Boston to Bar Harbor, you will . Take in the exhibits at the RISD Museum of Art. The trip takes roughly four hours and thirty-five minutes direct, with the bulk of the drive being along I-95. Theres an amazing downtown scene with plenty of shops and restaurants, and youre never that far from Ogunquit Beach. Its one of those idyllic towns youll daydream about moving to. Different spa packages to customize your stay that include dining options to make your visit stress-free. To get a better idea of how long this trip would really be, scroll down to calculate how many hours it would take if you drive with stops. This ocean-facing signal tower is a reminder of Portland's maritime past, and all through summer you can take a guided tour to learn more about the city's ocean-going heritage. We'd recommend following our suggested round trip route below, which hugs the coast northeastwards as far as Acadia National Park then swings inland through Bangor to explore Baxter State Park, the Kennebec Valley and Maine Highlands. Shop the boutiques in downtown Portsmouth. It is a good idea to pack a warm sweater if you're planning on visiting Harvest on the Harbor in Portland. There's a chance of big thunderstorms through summer, and it rains often (though usually not heavily). Let's say you're actually planning a road trip to Maine, and you want to stop on the way to explore. Ever since Kerouac published On the Road, the thought of driving around this amazing country has been on everyone's minds.Whether you want to explore Hawaiian islands or drive from coast to coast, there are endless wonders to be discovered. There is no best route for the road trip from Boston to Portland - the main difference is that the longer route goes a bit inland, passing cities and parks that, if you're short on time, might be too out of the way for a detour when taking the coastal route. Boston is the ideal spot to start this coastal New England road trip. On a car the distance is 4 hr (246.1 mi) via I-95 N. Heading out on a road trip from Boston to Maine? Back on the interstate, pass Bradley Palmer State Park before cutting through Georgetown-Rowley State Forest and crossing the Merrimack River. the way, check out the full road trip planner: In the quick calculation above, we assumed you had a private Image via Getty Images. First plan your route. And of course dont forget to enjoy the beautiful scenery of New England as you travel! Boston to Main Road Trip: The Route It's easy to reach the Cliff House Ogunquit from Boston. You can take off at any time to Portland to do something interesting and fun. Coastal Maine is filled with quaint fishing villages and photo opportunities, and our itinerary has you stopping at some of the most beautiful places along the way. to calculate the distance between cities. With the entire properly overlooking the Block Island Sound, its guaranteed youll be able to relax during your stay. Walk over to Goat Island to see the lighthouse and take in views of the Newport Bridge. Spend 2 nights in Bar Harbor. Jumping forward a few months, there's no avoiding the fact that Maine is very cold in winter. In that case, your travel time would really need to Better yet, book an overnight stay at this Gilded Age-era boutique hotel, located in the heart of Saratogas downtown. Hi there! Stowe is an adorable little village in Northern Vermont that I love to visit, and it always puts a smile on my face. Be sure to keep on reading to learn all the details regarding this beautiful itinerary. Spend some time at the beaches along Greenwich Point Park. As you head north youll come across a Shell station in Portland Maine. Get out of Boston nice and early to beat the morning traffic and depending on where you start from head over the Tobin Memorial Bridge or along the I-93 - both routes take about the same amount of time. First youll need to decide what kind of car you want to rent. That's what Trippy is perfect for, And then drive back to Boston. While visiting Salem in October is definitely a bucket list-worthy goal, its actually a really wonderful town to visit all year round. Share. Grab delicious cocktails with lunch or dinner at Morrisseys Lounge & Bistro inside the famed Adelphi Hotel. But for now, here's an example we've selected to Click here to read all my tips for taking a Block Island day trip! Visit one of my favorite breweries in New England. Enjoy the miles of hiking trails in the nearby mountains. Providence is the capital of Rhode Island, and also home to famed schools Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design. If youre short on time and want to do this route in fewer days, I would suggest spending a night in the Hudson Valley (same as above), spend 3 nights in NYC, but include a day trip to The Hamptons. Harbor, Camden, Maine. While you won't be travelling all 3,818km (2,369 miles) on this New England road trip, you'll be taking the scenic route through Maine's Mid Coast, stopping at various small coastal towns and beautiful lighthouses. See penguins, beluga whales, sharks and sea lions at the. If youre looking for a quick, easy getaway from city life in Boston, a little road trip to Plymouth is a fun way to do that. It has so much character, wonderful shops and restaurants, and really invites you to slow down a bit to take it all in. Known as the infamous site of the 1692 Salem Witch Trials, this haunting spot is perfect for history buffs. With that said, a better way to enjoy this route is to make as many stops as possible along the way - the route is packed with Atlantic Coast attractions for you to check out, and there are plenty of inland detours you may want to consider too. To see the details on this flight plan, including 304 Great Island Road Narragansett, RI, 02882 Phone: 401-783-7996 Toll-Free: 866-783-7996. . Portland Head Lighthouse is a must! With the full itinerary planned out, we can estimate For more information on things to do in Ogunquit, click the link below for my detailed travel guide. Pass Breakheart Reservation and Lynn Woods, and take the time to drive to Salem and check out the Salem Witch Museum. Follow the highway south the short distance to Solon, then turn onto Route 201A to cross the Kennebec River before taking Cross Town Road as far as Embden. Known for hosting two Olympic games, Lake Placid in the Adirondack region of Upstate NY has so much more to offer (although, the Olympic sites are definitely worth visiting!). For more, check . There are a variety of different options available from small economy cars to larger SUVs. Take a Venetian gondola ride along the river at Waterplace Park. Sitting along the Long Island sound, you can expect gorgeous beaches, amazing shopping and restaurants, specialty food markets and farmers markets, wineries and plenty of opportunity for rest and relaxation. Now finally, let's look at an actual flight from BOS to AUG on Cape Air and figure out how long it would take to fly including To help you make the most of your trip weve put together a few tips on how to prepare. This particular Mirbeau Spa is one of the newer additions to their family, and is decorated in a modern, Parisian style, which makes it feel like a unique destination. . Freshly designed and elegant coastal New England rooms and suites. Philly is Pennsylvanias largest city, and is deeply rooted in history, but there are all kinds of things to do from exciting nightlife and amazing food to parks and waterfront activities. 85 miles of hiking trails right outside your door. Valet parking included in your room rate. 14 Terrific Things to do in Mystic, CT. I've driven this way many times and each time I discover something new. The distance is the same either way if you're flying a straight line (or driving the same roads back and forth). This is a rugged and beautiful stretch of coast, so take your time exploring the inlets and islands that stretch out to the south of the highway. Make sure you fuel up before you hit the open road! Portland is an exciting waterfront city in Maine that sits on a peninsula along Casco Bay, and provides the best of both worlds as far as being a city destination thats also coastal. As Rockport is a small fishing village, parking can be hard to find and you'll need to feed the meter $1 an hour or thereabouts. This is a great way to enjoy the scenery without committing to an overnight stay. About one hour into the drive, be sure to make a quick stop in Salem, Massachusetts. Once you've arrived in Maine, you'll have longer distances to cover, but fortunately, there's so much to see and do in the Pine Tree State that you'll find something to break up even the longest of stretches on your trip. Distance From Boston: 1 hour and 45 minutes. Once youve decided on the type of car you want youll need to compare prices from different rental companies. You can enjoy a round of golf at an 18-hole championship course, have a picnic by the reflecting pool and admire the architecture of the Hall of Springs. Enjoy an afternoon of rest and restoration at the. Now let's assume you have a private jet and you can fly in the Often overshadowed by nearby Bar Harbor, Camden is a haven for outdoorsy travelers. plane and just wanted to know the time in the air from city to city. The real draw of this resort is the location, though - situated in Haymarket Square, this place is a stone's throw from many of Portsmouth's finest attractions, including The Strawberry Banke Museum and Prescott Park. That's because Boston can often be the ideal starting point to make your way up the coast. Leave Boston via Interstate 93, cutting through Middlesex Fells Reservation before hopping onto Route 95. Distance From Boston: 3 hours and 45 minutes (but always allow extra time for traffic). But if you have extra time, it could be added to a road trip itinerary for Skaneateles, NY and the finger lakes region. The Portland Head Light: This iconic lighthouse is one of the most photographed in the country and is definitely worth a stop on your road trip. Walk around Church Street, a pedestrian-only area lined with unique shops and restaurants. Join a small group for dinner, and learn from a local brew expert as you taste all the different beers that are brewed nearby. This New England road trip itinerary will take you on the scenic route from Boston to Portland then to Maine's Mid Coast and Acadia National Park. Maine offers a fabulous blend of activity and relaxation, and there are some fabulous hotel stops along the route which let you combine the two seamlessly. Charming towns and rocky coasts. We may earn a commission from any purchases you choose to make from our links, at no additional cost to you. A day trip to Nantucket is common while visiting Cape Cod, but staying overnight for a night or two would be the best way to make the most of your road trip from Boston. Visit Oldies Marketplace to look for antiques and treasures. Manicured gardens and pathways for relaxing walks. When you reach Caribou Lake, which will be on your right, take the left fork and head towards Kokadjo and Greenville. Walk along Parsons Way for amazing views of the dramatic coastline. It meanders through parts of Mayo Farm, and is a very relaxing way to spend an afternoon. Get a taste for the local brews with a Sip of Burlington Beer Tour. Take a boat tour along the Providence River. Whether you want to explore the coast of Massachusetts and Maine, go cute-town-hopping through Vermont or visit as many cities as you can, youre now ready to plan which of these road trips from Boston is perfect for you! Bar Harbor is a fun destination on its own because its full of character, and has great restaurants, and a beautiful harbor-side walking path and park. (whether it's first class or coach). Boston To Maine Distance: On a car, the distance is 4 hr (246.1 mi) via I-95 N. Road Trip From Boston To Maine: Gas Stations On The Way Heading out on a road trip from Boston to Maine? Go hiking at Smugglers Notch State Park. Then head to Portland Observatory. You'll encounter snowfall and freezing temperatures through the winter compared to temperatures in the 80s in summer! Block Island is a beautiful island off the coast of Rhode Island with gorgeous beaches, walking trails, water activities, salt marshes, great restaurants and is overall a wonderful place to relax while appreciating the outdoors. your total travel time for this trip. Greenwich is an absolutely beautiful town that sits right on the border of New York, and also very accessible to Manhattan. you'll be able to customize this plan, choosing your own airports As well as being a gateway to Acadia National Park, there are great food and drink options in the town of Bar Harbor itself, and beautiful views out over the ocean. You can really immerse yourself in the coastal vibe here. into account all these factors to get a more accurate estimate This route takes a bit longer to drive, coming in at 140 miles and taking 2 hours 10 minutes to drive. With Providence River running through the city, you still have opportunities to feel like youre connected to nature, and with tons of restaurants, shops, nightlife and history, this destination makes for an amazing road trip from Boston. Distance From Boston: 2 hours and 45 minutes. For more on the best things to do on the Cape, click the link below for my detailed travel guide. Three oceanfront restaurants and a coffee cafe. Click here to read my travel guide on the best things to do in Salem, with tips and suggestions for a day trip! If so congratulations! Whichever way you spin it, it won't take more than four hours to drive to Portland and back, so consider taking one route on the way there and the other during the return trip. Making your trip fun and lovable, you should make stops as much as possible. During the summer, experience WaterFire, where braziers are set with bonfires in the middle of the river. However, all that snow means that Maine is all set up for winter sports. Make sure to compare not only the base price but also any additional charges that may apply. From there, you can choose between Hyline Cruises or Steamship Authority to get to Nantucket. 101 Things to Do in New England. Tip: If you wanted to extend your road trip further along this route, there is a ferry that leaves from New London, CT, and goes to the Hamptons! If you're lucky you might be able to see whales feeding in the bay here in summer. Ascend Cadillac Mountain, the first place in the US to see the sun each day (for 6 months of the year), or head to Thunder Hole where waves break impressively into a natural inlet. recommended restaurants, hotels, and things to do along The road trip from Boston to Portland is filled with amazing hotels, and although there's not a lot of driving, many of the beaches and towns along the way deserve at least a full day's attention. But for most of us, we're going to be flying on a commercial airline This route will take you to these destinations: Note: The route from Boston to The Hamptons, while making all the stops in the Hudson Valley in-between, is not direct, and will take about 7.5 hours without stops, so I highly suggest you stop overnight in at least one of the towns to break up your drive. To help you with your route planning, we've provided more detailed driving distances further down the page. So sit back relax and enjoy the ride. Salem is another little coastal town along the North Shore of Massachusetts, and is known for being the premier New England destination for all things spooky. Bike the Burlington Bike Path, a beautiful path along the lake thats over 7 miles long. Newburyport is a delightful little coastal town in Massachusetts that has a very traditional New England feel with beautiful homes at every turn, and an adorable little downtown area and waterfront park. In addition to monuments like the Witch House, we . Offering both beaches and a wonderful downtown scene, this is a great place to relax, unwind and enjoy being by the water. Once youve got your car and your route planned its time to hit the road! Distance From Boston: 3 hours and 45 minutes. Mirbeau has a few locations throughout the Northeast, but my favorite of them all is in Rhinebeck, NY, a beautiful little town in the Hudson Valley. You may also like:The best New England gifts and souvenirs to look for during your trip! But for a real trip, there can be plenty of differences This could easily be a long weekend itinerary if you dont stop in each town overnight, and just visit Manchester and Stowe for a few hours each. for security, board and taxi on the runway, land at the other How far is Maine from Boston? Tour the open waters on a beautiful Schooner tour with. Spend plenty of time at Ogunquit Beach, one of the best beaches in Maine. I suggest this much time because your final destination, Bar Harbor, is home to Acadia National Park, and theres so much to see and do just in the park. Drive for 59 minutes then stop in Brunswick (Maine) and stay for 1 hour. Here, you can park up to explore the trails of Bigelow Preserve or continue further along East Flagstaff Road to enjoy views out across the lake. If you have less time, the islands could be done as day trips, and you could attempt this route in about 5 days. Explore the downtown shops and restaurants. The Ultimate New England Road Trip Itinerary. Park passes can be purchased online in advance by clicking here. The path can be accessed from several locations in the village. between Portland and Acadia National Park/Bar Harbor! Block Island Ferry - High-Speed. After your exercise, quench your thirst at the Great Falls Brewing Company. Can you take a train from . Once you're done, you can hit the fitness center before retreating to the comfort of your suite's spa bath for that final touch of elegance before going to bed. Rockport is one of my favorite coastal towns in all of New England. Do a self-guided historical walking tour along Benefit Street to see some of the citys most historic houses and buildings. Whichever route you choose, you can expect a fair bit of traffic on your way out of Boston and into Portland - if you happen to get caught up in congestion, you can always slow down and check out some of the gorgeous beaches and resort towns on the Atlantic Coast. Rent a bike and ride along Gin Lane in Southampton for incredible views of the ocean, and to see some amazing houses. While Mystic is mostly visited for its quaint, waterfront downtown, its also home to parts of two bordering towns, Stonington and Groton, giving you opportunity to explore a few different coastal Connecticut destinations during your visit. Trippy has an entire Q&A community where you can post questions and get answers from expert travelers or locals who know the area. Click here to read my detailed travel guide on the best things to do on Cape Ann, a region of the North Shore that includes Rockport, Click here to book your stay at The Castle Hill Inn in Newport, Click here to book your stay at the Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa in Lake Placid, Best Places To Stay In Vermont In The Fall, Best Stops To Make When Driving From Boston to Stowe, VT, Best Things To Do In Vermont In The Winter, Best Stops To Make Driving From Boston To Portland, Maine, New England Bucket List: 75 Things You Must See & Do, Click here to read about the best off-the-beaten-path stops to make. Their public transportation as well as flight, train, and bus options make it easy to make it to the East Coast from anywhere in the world. Route 1 takes you from the Canada-US border in Maine to the tip of the Florida Keys. A stay here really is an experience in itself. Block Island is a beautiful island off the coast of Rhode Island with gorgeous beaches, walking trails, water activities, salt marshes, great restaurants and is overall a wonderful place to relax while appreciating the outdoors. Melting snow can bring slushy, muddy puddles, and temperatures in March are still usually below 40 degrees. This gas station is open 24 hours a day so you can always fill up here no matter what time it is. The Best New England Gifts and Souvenirs to Look For During Your Trip, Arts Dune Tours: The Best Way To Explore Cape Cods Sand Dunes, Is Cape Cod Worth A Day Trip? You'll be spoilt for choice as you make your way around Maine - whether your preference is to spend time in the city, on the coast or exploring the great outdoors, there's something for everyone on this trip. If an overnight stay doesnt work with your plans, guests can also purchase a day pass to the resort grounds, which allows you access to the hiking trails. There are quite a few cities that make for amazing road trips from Boston, and many of them can be combined with other destinations from this list to offer the best of city life, and coastal or small-town living. If you're hiking, pack bug spray, as the rising temperatures bring out bugs that, although harmless, aren't likely to enhance your day on the trail. Start off with a couple of days in the Maine beaches region, which stretches from the New Hampshire border up to Portland. As an alternative, we'd suggest Leisure Life, Greenville, which is spacious, and easy to get to from the highway. Click here for an awesome Vermont covered bridges tour itinerary! Theres even a lovely hotel on the island called Avonlea. Visit Bass Harbor Lighthouse inside Acadia. Take a culinary tour of the city and learn the very best places to eat, led by a local. New England Wanderlust contains affiliate links, and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. Walk around Mirror Lake, located in the heart of Lake Placids downtown. If you want to add Philadelphia, youll want to add an extra night or two. fastest possible straight line between Boston, Massachusetts and Acadia National Park is one of the top destinations in all of New England, providing over 120 miles of hiking trails, and countless opportunities to take in some of the best and most incredible coastline views in the entire Northeast. Don't expect to have the place all to yourself if you visit in summer though - Acadia National Park is one of the most-visited in the US, and popular towns and cities can get pretty crowded in August. Boston, Massachusetts, makes a great starting point for a drive along Maine's coast: Flying into Boston's Logan International Airport will grant you easy access to a variety of rental-car agencies, not to mention all that the city has to offer.Before hitting the road, spend a day or two discovering Boston's historic sites; follow the Freedom Trail to learn more about the city's . Tour the Portland Arts District, which is filled with art galleries, museums and theaters. Best Things To Do in Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park: Tip: Youll need to purchase a park pass to enter any attractions inside Acadia National Park. If youre not familiar with the area its a good idea to use a GPS system or online mapping tool to help you plan the most efficient route. Of course, you can drive straight through in under five hours, but there is so much to see on the Maine coast. This is not the Tour De France, but you will be cycling anywhere from 4 to 30 miles depending on which tour you choose. Located in Upstate, NY and known for its horse racing track season, this destination has so much more to offer including a wonderful Main Street for shopping and dining, gorgeous parks, beautiful and historic architecture and live entertainment. Click here to read all my tips for taking a Newport, RI day trip! On the northern stretch of the route, with around 8 hours of driving between here and Boston, Greenville is the perfect place to base yourself for a few days to explore parts of the Maine Highlands and Moosehead Lake. Walk around the alpine-inspired downtown village to visit the quaint shops. Visit Bowens Wharf for shopping and dining. New York City needs no introduction, and if youve never been to the city that never sleeps, this is an absolute must if youre looking into road trips from Boston. Here are a few gas stations along the way where you can stop to fill up your tank. There is no benefit to picking one over the other, and its best to just pick whichever location is more convenient for you (usually its Hyannis for most people). Last but most definitely not least on our round-up of the best road trips from Boston, is the city of Brothery Love, Philadelphia. The distance from Boston to Portland Maine is 110 mile which takes 1 hour 45 minutes to drive. Drive from Boston to Portland 107.1 miles $19 - $29 Quickest way to get there Cheapest option Distance between Boston to Maine by bus The bus journey time between Boston and Maine is around 2h 22m and covers a distance of around 114 miles. Stroll around the waterfront to admire the views of Lake Champlain, as well as the Burlington Breakwater Lighthouse. Overviews of the resort have been used in the Amazon Prime series Upload, and has long been rumored to be the inspiration behind Stephen Kings The Shining. Click here to read even more awesome things to do in Marblehead! The other option is to drive direct from Boston to New York City, and leave out the Hudson Valley towns entirely. Take a leisurely walk along Shore Path in Bar Harbor for the best views of the harbor. Also, keep in mind that conditions can change quickly along the coastal stretch of this route. It actually reminds me a bit of Prince Edward Island, so if youre looking to live out your Anne of Green Gables dreams, but cant make it to Canada, this is a great place to do that. Spend some time exploring Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor before returning along the route back to Ellsworth. As an alternative, we'd suggest Leisure Life, Greenville, Centrally located Portland Harbor Hotel stylishly combines modern design with hints of coastal chic. Venture just outside the city to visit Longwood Gardens, an expansive garden oasis filled with both indoor and outdoor gardens and, and beautifully designed grounds. Be sure to keep on reading to learn all the details regarding this beautiful itinerary. Nearby, you can also visit Spring Point Ledge Light and Bug Light, and do a mini lighthouse tour without leaving the city! Visit Honeymoon Bridge, the towns famous red covered bridge. These destinations dont have to be all about luxury, but since its nice to treat yourself every now and then, I wanted to include a few of my favorite luxury resorts that are easy road trips from Boston. The 25 Best Things to Do in Burlington, VT.Everything You Need to Know about Sailing on a Maine Windjammer Cruise. This gas station is open 24 hours as well so you can always get your gas here no matter when you need it. Golden Road skirts the edge of Baxter State Park, where you'll find Mt Katahdin and dozens of amazing trails. Bar Harbor is the adjacent town to Acadia, and where most people stay when visiting the park. Then drive to The Hamptons, and spend 3 nights. A Boston to Maine road trip is closer to 250 miles, making it doable in a single day. If you're having issues using the site, please enable JavaScript and refresh your browser. Click here to read my detailed review of a Mohonk Mountain House Day Pass! Cross the Piscataqua River to enter Maine, then stop by Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge before taking a break in Biddeford. With things to do outdoors along the dramatic coastline, to an amazing restaurant and food scene, Portland has a little something for everyone during your road trip from Boston. Heading inland from Bar Harbor you'll soon find yourself driving through Maine's beautiful interior, where rivers, lakes, forests and mountains create a beautiful backdrop to any trip. Without stopping the Boston to Bar Harbor drive time along the I-95N is about five hours total and the distance between Boston and Bar Harbor is about 300 miles (483 kilometres). Plymouth Farmers Market is held every Thursday from May through October, and was. You could, of course, take your time, and do up to 5 nights for this itinerary. Rent a moped to explore the entire island. If you're pushed for time, then this is the perfect way to get all the benefits of a road trip, without spending a lot of money or taking loads of time off work. take-off and landing, and time to taxi on the runway. Legend says its haunted by a girl who hung herself on the bridge after her boyfriend never came to meet her. As we had a late flight, we only arrived in Newburyport at 7 pm. Boston is an amazing starting point for adventures all over New England and the Northeast. You can either use the interstate here or hop onto the highway if you want to explore at a more leisurely pace. Its very walkable with a variety of things to do, and makes for a great day trip, or a weekend getaway. Drive to the summit of Cadillac Mountain inside Acadia for sunrise or sunset. New York City, Portsmouth, NH, Philadelphia, PA, Portland, ME, Burlington, VT and Providence, RI are all within 6 hours or less from Boston, and are all included on this list as amazing road trips from Boston. Then drive to NYC the next day, and spend 3 nights there. Travel + Leisure has even named Ocean House as one of the top 100 hotels in the entire world. Portsmouth is a port-side city with a gorgeous downtown filled with quaint shops and boutiques, and is known as being a huge foodie destination. Spend the day getting pampered at Mirbeau Resort & Spa, and even stay for lunch or dinner, or the night for the ultimate day of relaxation. It is your road trip, it means, the journey is the key part rather than the destination, Portland. Portland is one of the most historically significant cities in all of Maine, and luckily, the Portland Harbor Hotel is mere minutes from various historic districts and monuments. Walk around High Falls Gorge, a 22-acre nature park with waterfalls. Grab drinks and lunch or dinner at The Cottage, a restaurant at Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa that sits right on Mirror Lake. To see all the details on this itinerary, including Even though youre road-tripping from a city already, its still exciting to explore a new one. Below youll find suggested itineraries with different routes you can take while planning the best road trips from Boston. For more amazing things to do on Nantucket, click the link below for my detail travel guide on a Nantucket day trip. Finally, before you hit the road, make your way to Old Port to enjoy the view out across the water one last time while you watch fishing crews haul in their catch of lobster. The best resort in town is The Hotel Portsmouth, whose elegant rooms will leave you feeling like 17th-century royalty, Portland Harbor Hotel, the epitome of style, comfort, and oceanside luxury. Have an authentic lobsterman experience with. You'll want to spend a long time here, ideally in Portland Harbor Hotel, the epitome of style, comfort, and oceanside luxury. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Boston and Maine are near neighbours, and you can make the 70-mile drive from Boston to York, Maine in just over an hour. For a meal that can't be beat, head out to the hotel's very own BlueFin North Atlantic Seafood Restaurant to enjoy some of the finest seafood you're likely to try. Are you planning a road trip from Boston to Maine? This is a great opportunity to relax and take in the scenery. Before you strike out from Boston, check out our guides for everything fun to do in the city! With so many things to do, you could easily spend a weekend here, but Newport will also work for a day trip. March 30, 2022. You can enjoy amazing views right out of the hotel and relax after a long day of hiking and driving in the hotel's bar or by the pool table. The route is more diverse than the short mileage might have you believe, so it's hard to list every attraction on the way, but these are some of the absolute highlights: There really is no wrong time to do the road trip from Boston to Portland, although as you might expect from a coastal trip, the warmer seasons are generally the safest options. However, staying completely on the I-95 isn't the ideal route to go if you want to make the most out of this road trip. But then you can drive direct from Burlington to Boston on your way home, which will only take 3.5 hours. Maine is known for its beautiful coastline and rugged inland scenery dominated by rivers, lakes and mountains. This is a great island to explore if youre looking for stunning beaches and a beautiful downtown area. Make sure you fuel up before you hit the open road! Located in the Hudson Valley of New York, Hudson is known as being incredibly charming, and one of the best destinations for antiquing in the area. These are some of the hotels you'll want to book before taking off: Home to some of the most gorgeous architecture along the East Coast, Portsmouth is a city brimming with charm and personality. Drive to Portland, and spend the night. Otherwise, simply follow Interstate 95 (I-95) North all the way across Massachusetts and New Hampshire until you reach Portsmouth, where the Piscataqua River Bridge takes you into Maine. Walk through the truly adorable village and enjoy the local shops and coffee cafes. Antiquing! Drive to the summit of Mount Washington, the highest peak in New England. Visit Perkins Cove to enjoy its charming shops and restaurants. to account for all the extra travel time getting to the airport, The next day, spend your morning in Portland, and then drive to Bar Harbor to arrive by mid-afternoon. Hike Mount Mansfield, the highest mountain in Vermont, or drive the auto road to the summit. Skaneateles is a lakeside town in the Finger Lakes region of Upstate, NY, and is a wonderful place to visit, especially in the Summer. Have a beach day and watch the surfers at Coopers Beach in Southampton. In the summer, the mountain offers horseback riding and lots of hiking trails. Go kayaking or stand up paddleboarding on the lake. Make sure you have a good supply of snacks and drinks a first-aid kit a map and anything else you might need. Beautifully-appointed rooms with a private terrace, and your choice of partial or full ocean views. Walk around the grounds of Saratoga Spa State Park, which is a National Historic Landmark. Driving non-stop from Boston to Maine How far is Maine from Boston? After so many trips to Maine, I put together this one to two-week Maine coast road trip itinerary from Beantown all the way up to . Seeing as it's only a short drive up to Maine, you might like to detour towards the coast to visit Salem, Gloucester or Rockport along the way. Grab a warm lobster roll, which originated in CT, at. One of the best towns to stay in is Jackson, where youll find a lovely downtown and Main Street, an iconic red covered bridge, and endless opportunities to explore the White Mountains region, including lots of hiking and outdoor activities. A relaxation room, aqua terrace and steam facility within the spa. Marblehead is an adorable little coastal town along the North Shore of Massachusetts, and a very quick road trip from Boston. Temperatures on the coast can reach the high 30s Fahrenheit at times, but inland you should expect temperatures below freezing, and as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit, from December to January. Days Needed For This Route: 1 week. This list includes destinations that are all individually under 6 hours from Boston, and if youre looking for road trip itineraries that combine destinations from this list, be sure to scroll to the end for suggested itineraries to make the most of your road trip! Check out some of the questions people have asked about Maine like We want to drive from Maine to San Antonio, TX. Marblehead Lighthouse & Chandler Hovey Park. To get to the island, youll need to drive to the Pt. The busy airport offers a convenient spot to begin your Boston to Bangor road trip. Nothing can beat a cozy weekend morning by the fireplace with a good book, and for good measure, the hotel also throws in some amazing window views of the exterior, which is as lovely as they come. Admire the architecture of the historic district buildings. So now we can finally get an idea of the total travel time from the airports, an estimated wait time of 2 hours at the airport for TSA Lets head to the White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire! Walk along the lively waterfront scene on Commercial Street for shopping, dining and water views. For more things to do in Rockport and the North Shore region, click the link below for my detailed travel guide. The highway then takes you on through Wiscasset and Thomaston. shortest distance is actually the "great circle" distance, or This road trip itinerary includes plenty of scenic Maine coastal drives, small towns worthy of day trips, and yes plenty of beach time! Get your hands muddy with a pottery workshop at. There are 15 towns in Cape Cod to choose from for your visit, and more beaches than anyone can count. Realistically, you'll probably want to add a buffer for rest stops, gas, or food along the way. America is hallowed ground when it comes to road trips. From here, you'll follow the Atlantic coast right the way to Acadia National Park, close to the Canadian border. Next up is Manchester - explore the city and get on Route 101, passing Bear Brook and Pawtuckaway State Parks. With some of the best Maine Beaches right here, offering long stretches of sand, beautiful bays and stunning ocean views, where better to exit the interstate and begin to explore? Once youve found the perfect car for your road trip its time to start planning your route. Complimentary coffee, tea and water stations on each floor. Marthas Vineyard is the other island off the coast of Cape Cod, and its more popular as an overnight destination, versus a day trip because its bigger. Rent a moped to explore the local beaches and towns. We know what you're thinking: a coastal Maine road-trip that begins in Massachusetts? Hop on a BYOB trolley tour of the city, hosted by hilarious guides that share historic and entertaining information, and take you to some of the top sites in the city. Walk along Cliff Walk for amazing coastal views. Grab some fresh and delicious pastries from. Ive personally had massages and treatments at different locations, and theyve always been consistent in quality (and, of course, relaxation). A serene, calm spa atmosphere throughout the entire grounds. Because this route requires ferries from Cape Cod to the islands, and with Cape Cod being a larger region to explore, I recommend a week. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront park. Some rooms are also ocean-front. Stroll down Warren Street, where most of the storefronts can be found. At East Millinocket you can take a detour up to North Penobscot to pick up the Katahdin Woods & Waters Scenic Byway, or continue on past Millinocket and join Golden Road on the narrow strip of land that separates Millinocket Lake and Ambajejus Lake. Pick up some gourmet, small-batch chocolates from. Traditionally-decorated rooms and suites that overlook the mountains. Guests are invited to walk around in robes, including at lunch, and the on-site hotel allows you to continue your relaxation journey into the evening for the perfect overnight stay. If youre planning a road trip from Boston to Maine there are plenty of attractions to see along the way. An all-inclusive stay where breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, as well as all outdoor activities such as kayaks, row boats and canoes, are all included in the room rate. Salem. Arizona returns to their new home ice for the first time following a 14-game road trip. This is a trip full of big, beautiful views, magical scenery and charming towns - the perfect ingredients for an unforgettable road trip. While you're here you should definitely take a moose-watching tour, where you'll try and track down these gentle giants in the wild. To get to Marthas Vineyard, youll need to take a ferry from either Woods Hole or Hyannis (both terminals located on Cape Cod). Port land-lovers If you prefer to stay on dry land, you can pick one of Summer Feet Cycling's bike tours. The 110-mile road trip from Boston to Portland takes 1 hour 45 minutes to drive. Click here to read about all the best things to do in Newport, RI in the winter! We've picked out some of the highlights, but one of the real pleasures of this route is the chance to stop off and explore the small towns, coastal scenery and big views that you happen upon as you drive. The road trip from Boston to Portland covers 110 miles of ground along the quicker route and takes around 1 hour 45 minutes to drive. If youre looking to combine towns from this list into longer roads trips, or are wondering which towns are close enough to combine together to maximize your time and cover the most ground, Ive got you covered! The circuit ends at Sebago Lake, one of the state's most popular destinations, and from here it's just a couple of hours back down the interstate to return to Boston. September also might just be the ideal time to visit with reduced crowds, warm days, and low humidity. Click here to book your stay at Mirbeau Resort & Spa! At low tide it's possible to walk out to nearby Fox Island, but keep an eye that the tide doesn't cut off the causeway before you return. Its a small town, and can be done in a day, but a weekend here would be a very relaxing road trip from Boston. In the winter, go skiing at Black Mountain. While in Lake Placid, youll be surrounded by mountains and fresh air, and feel like youve truly escaped from every day life. Located in the small college town of New Paltz, Mohonk Mountain House is right in the heart of the Hudson Valley of New York, and is surrounded by 40,000 acres of forest. Drive for 56 minutes then stop in Waterville and stay for 1 hour. Days Needed For This Route: 3-5 days. This oceanfront resort sits atop 70 acres of cliffs, and offers incredible amenities that will allow you fully emerse yourself in Maines natural beauty without having to go far. Stroll along the Delaware Riverfront to explore Cherry Street and Race Street Piers, and take in amazing views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. Popham Beach State Park - Where the Kennebec River meets the sea you can swim, surf or stroll along the shifting sands at this popular state park. If you have a little extra time, detour east along Highway 1 here towards Schoodic Head, where the National Scenic Byway offers more fantastic views. Burlington is a small and beautiful city in Northern Vermont that sits along Lake Champlain, and is wonderfully diverse, exuberant and also very relaxing. Distance From Boston: 1.5 hours, but always anticipate extra traffic crossing the Newport bridge. Click the link below to book your tour, or learn more info. Distance From Boston: 2-3 hours, which includes time to park at the ferry terminal, and ride the ferry. So make sure you stop at one of them before you hit the road on your Boston to Maine road trip! And with everything to do from shopping and dining to hiking and nature walks, youre sure to find something that everyone in your group will enjoy. Continue along Golden Road as it starts to swing back south again. with tips and suggestions for a day trip! To drive, you follow Route 95 north about two hours from downtown Boston. LazyTrips is a trading name of Strategy Desk Ltd. Meander through Montgomery Pinetum, a public park thats very relaxing, and also has beautiful ponds, nature trails and gardens with an educational center and greenhouse. Equinox, the tallest mountain in the Taconic Range, and enjoy the incredible views from above. There are a few different ways to get from Boston to Maine so take some time to research which one will work best for you. This route will take you up the coast of Maine and stop in these destinations: Days Needed For This Route: 7-10 days. For one of the very best luxury experiences in all of New England, Ocean House in Westerly, RI is a truly amazing destination. Even though its a well-known ski destination in the winter months, its a great little place to visit year-round will lots of outdoor activities and perfect Vermont scenery all over, including some beautiful covered bridges. Then, be sure to visit Salisbury Beach State Reservation, North Beach, and Hampton Beach State Park before reaching Portsmouth. and flights. If you wanted to visit Philadelphia, this would be the route you would want to add that destination to, as you will have to drive through NYC to get there. This is a great little town to visit if youre looking to relax, enjoy a small-town atmosphere and see where the day takes you. Take the Staten Island Ferry for views of the Statue of Liberty (this is free and way better than the official tours, which are super crowded!). This small little town in Southern Vermont is the perfect place to disconnect and relax. No matter what time of day or night it is these gas stations will always be open to help you out. Im the creator and writer behind New England Wanderlust, and my passion is sharing my knowledge on the very best things to do and see in New England, and beyond. For more information on the best things to do in Marblehead, click the link before for my detailed travel guide. Click here for my travel guide on deciding between Marthas Vineyard and Nantucket for a day trip, including tips on doing Marthas Vineyard as a day trip. If it's a real road trip, you might want to check out interesting places along the way, or maybe eat at a great restaurant. Segment 1: Boston, MA to Portland, ME Distance: 112 miles Drive time without stops: 1 hour, 45 mins For simplicity's sake, this road trip guide assumes you've already explored Boston to your heart's content and are ready to explore beyond the lands "just outside Boston." T his first segment will take you through New Hampshire and into Maine. The trailhead is a short 5-minute drive from town center. Add in a couple of hours for the drive back from Sebago Lake to Boston, and you're looking at a total of 22 hours 30 minutes for the complete, 960-mile road trip. There are plenty of other great attractions to see along the way so be sure to do some research and plan your route accordingly. . To finish up your trip, take the scenic backroads to return to Litchfield, or head over to the cute towns near West . 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